PBB must mobilise youth voters to secure next Sarawak election mandate, says vice-president

Dr Annuar at the PBB Samariang Dinner. Photo credit: TVS

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Sept 12: Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) needs to step up efforts to engage first-time voters aged 18 to 20 ahead of the next Sarawak election, particularly as many remain unfamiliar with the voting process.

According to TVS, PBB vice-president Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee said his observations at the party’s branches showed that many voters in the age group could be voting for the first time and may still be uncertain about the process and their choices.

“Some may not know how to vote or which candidate to choose, while others may refrain from turning up entirely due to a lack of familiarity with the process.

“This group can determine who wins and who loses. They need direct guidance because they are new voters exposed to a high volume of unverified information,” he told reporters, citing feedback from PBB branch levels.

He emphasised that the youth vote extends far beyond first-time voters, noting that individuals aged up to 40 make up more than 75 percent of the broader youth demographic.

“To capture this critical mass, PBB is rolling out targeted youth outreach initiatives. I will meet with the PBB youth movement in the Northern Zone of Sarawak to finalise specific programs that must be executed ahead of the state election,” he added.

While the current term of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) expires in February 2027, placing the constitutional deadline for the election in April 2027, preparations are accelerating amid expectations that polls could be called earlier.

Beyond voter outreach, Dr Annuar called for sustained internal party cohesion outside of formal convention and election cycles.

He argued that regular gatherings are essential to maintain strong ties across constituencies and track voters who have relocated outside their registered areas.

He reiterated PBB’s goal to retain all currently held seats in the upcoming polls, emphasising that a solid grassroots foundation is crucial to securing a strong mandate for the State leadership and driving Sarawak’s long-term development agenda under the Premier. — DayakDaily